Compassion and Pride: LGBTQIA+ End-of-Life Guide Design
Project Overview
I had the honor of designing Ember: An LGBTQIA+ End-of-Life Guide, a resource created to empower LGBTQIA+ individuals and support Health and Social Care professionals in providing compassionate end-of-life care. This guide grew from the heartfelt conversations of “Death Cafés” hosted across Ireland and was developed in partnership with the All Ireland Institute of Hospice and Palliative Care (AIIHPC), LGBT Ireland, and the Irish Hospice Foundation.
Design Approach
The design of Ember embraced a sex-positive and inclusive visual language. Using custom-made illustrations, I aimed to tell a story of dignity, pride, and community. The visuals celebrated diversity across genders, body types, and ethnicities, reflecting the broad spectrum of identities within the LGBTQIA+ community.
Key Features
Custom Illustrations: Warm and affirming visuals that fostered comfort and belonging.
Inclusive Storytelling: Art that addressed sensitive topics with respect and empathy, resonating with individuals from varied backgrounds.
Accessible Layouts: Thoughtful design for easy navigation, ensuring clarity and usability across print and digital formats.
Impact
The design was crafted to create a safe space within the pages of the guide, where individuals could explore difficult conversations about death, dying, and bereavement. By pairing visual storytelling with actionable resources, the guide not only informed but also empowered readers to navigate end-of-life planning with confidence and care.
Content Highlights
Addressing gaps in bereavement support for LGBTQIA+ individuals.
Navigating funeral planning outside of religious rituals.
Resources for health and social care professionals.
Stories and insights from Death Café participants.
Why It Matters
This project was a testament to the power of community-driven design. It transformed insights from real conversations into a resource that fosters pride, compassion, and inclusivity at one of life’s most vulnerable moments.
Explore the visuals and learn how thoughtful design can make a profound difference in advocacy and care.
